Stop-F Functionality

The Stop-F functionality is not available in systems with USB keyboards. However, the RSC bootmode forth command provides similar functionality. For more information, see the Sun Remote System Control (RSC) 2.2 User’s Guide, which is included on the Sun Fire V490 Documentation CD.

Stop-N Functionality

The Stop-N sequence is a method of bypassing problems typically encountered on systems with misconfigured OpenBoot configuration variables. On systems with older keyboards, you did this by pressing the Stop-N sequence while powering on the system.

On systems with USB keyboards, like the Sun Fire V490, the implementation involves waiting for the system to reach a particular state. For instructions, see “How to Implement Stop-N Functionality” on page 164.

The drawback of using Stop-N on a Sun Fire V490 system is that, if diagnostics are enabled, it can take some time for the system to reach the desired state. Fortunately, an alternative exists: Place the system control switch in the Diagnostics position.

Placing the system control switch in Diagnostics position will override OpenBoot configuration variable settings, allowing the system to recover to the ok prompt and letting you correct misconfigured settings.

Assuming you have access to RSC software, another possibility is to use the RSC bootmode reset_nvram command, which provides similar functionality. For more information, see the Sun Remote System Control (RSC) 2.2 User’s Guide, which is included on the Sun Fire V490 Documentation CD.

About Automatic System Recovery

The Sun Fire V490 system provides a feature called automatic system recovery (ASR). To some, ASR implies an ability to shield the operating system in the event of a hardware failure, allowing the operating system to remain up and running. The implementation of ASR on the Sun Fire V490 server is different—it provides for automatic fault isolation and restoration of the operating system following non-fatal faults or failures of these hardware components:

Processors

Memory modules

PCI buses and cards

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Sun Microsystems V490 manual About Automatic System Recovery, Stop-F Functionality, Stop-N Functionality

V490 specifications

Sun Microsystems V490 is a robust, high-performance server that was launched in the mid-2000s. It is part of Sun's Enterprise line of servers, specifically designed to meet the needs of businesses requiring reliability, scalability, and efficiency in their computing environments. The V490 is well-regarded for its versatility and ability to handle demanding applications.

At the heart of the V490 is its support for the UltraSPARC IV processor. The server can be configured to contain up to four processors, allowing it to deliver exceptional parallel processing capabilities. The UltraSPARC IV architecture enhances throughput and efficiency, making it suitable for enterprise applications and database management tasks.

One of the standout features of the V490 is its memory capacity. The server can support up to 64 GB of RAM, which allows for extensive caching and improved performance for memory-intensive applications. Coupled with a high bandwidth architecture, the V490 ensures that data can be processed quickly and effectively.

The V490 also emphasizes storage flexibility. It comes equipped with multiple disk drive bays, allowing for a combination of SATA and SAS drives. This flexibility enables businesses to tailor their storage solutions according to their specific performance and redundancy requirements. The V490 supports hot-swappable drives, making maintenance and upgrades considerably easier without taking the server offline.

In terms of connectivity, the Sun V490 features a variety of networking options. It includes multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, ensuring high-speed data transfer and redundancy. Additionally, the server supports advanced input/output capabilities, making it compatible with various peripherals and external storage solutions.

Sun Microsystems V490 runs on the Solaris operating system, known for its stability and security. This OS enhances the server's performance while providing a reliable platform for mission-critical applications. The V490 also supports virtualization technologies, allowing organizations to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single hardware platform, thus optimizing resource utilization.

Another key characteristic of the V490 is its thermal efficiency. The server is designed with an advanced cooling system that minimizes energy consumption while maximizing performance. This focus on power efficiency aligns with modern data center requirements for sustainability and reduced operational costs.

In summary, the Sun Microsystems V490 is a powerful enterprise server that combines the latest processing technologies, substantial memory and storage capabilities, and robust networking options. Its scalability, along with advanced virtualization support and energy-efficient design, makes it a suitable choice for organizations looking to enhance their IT infrastructure. The V490 remains a testament to Sun Microsystems' commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable computing solutions.